My boys have been talking about Easter since the day after Christmas. Their focus changes rather quickly to the next celebration where they will be bestowed with gifts. Easter has always been my favorite holiday. I’m a choc-o-holic, so as a kid I looked forward to the giant chocolate bunny that was always in my basket. As a health-conscious parent, I’m not as excited about that bunny as I used to be. (Not to say I wouldn’t eat one that might happen to be left on the counter…) Like all parents, I want what is best for my children.

While candy is a huge part of the Easter Basket tradition, it doesn’t have to be its focus. On the other hand, we don’t want to turn the Easter Bunny into another Santa Claus either. Honestly, one of the nice things about the Easter Bunny is that his tastes are much less expensive than those of good ol’ St. Nick’s. Personally, I would like to keep it that way.

Here are a few tips for a healthier basket that won’t have your children questioning the Easter Bunny’s existence, nor will they put a hurting on your bank account…

1) Books. Our Easter Bunny loves to bring books. You can find small, inexpensive Scholastic books at any store. My 6 year old is starting to read chapter books. We have a deal going that when he finishes reading one, he can pick another. It has been a great incentive for him. This year he is HOPING the Easter Bunny puts a book in his basket. This pleases me.

2) Toothpaste and Brushes. Everyone loves candy. Of course we would never exclude it entirely. But, maybe we can offset some the negative effects it may have by including a gift that encourages something healthier, like brushing your teeth. My boys always like getting a new toothbrush so it seems rather fitting to include one in their Easter Basket.

3) Trail Mix or Fruit Leathers. My oldest son loves peanuts. My youngest loves fruit snacks. These are special treats for them that we don’t keep in the house on a regular basis. Try filling your baskets with a favorite trail mix, microwave popcorn, dried fruit or other fun, healthier snacks.

4) Get Creative and Theme It. Try putting a theme to your baskets. Some easy and inexpensive suggestions are Movie Night, Games and Learning (board games and flash cards), Sun and Fun (sandbox and pool toys).

Put your own spin on the Easter Basket. Step out of the box and have fun with it. Who says holidays are for children?! Do you have any fun Easter Basket suggestions? Please share them here!

Related posts:

1. Holiday Energy Levels, Avoiding the Crash
2. Play-date Ideas For Apartment Living
3. Fast Food: Healthier Options?
4. College Student- School supply and demand!
5. New Year’s Resolutions: Good, Bad, Ugly

Tags: books, candy, children, Chocolate, Easter, Easter baskets, Easter Bunny, gifts, granola bars, Health, health food, Holidays, hygene, Kids, snacks